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Newbie HD question

Okay, so I bought the LCD TV with HD built in and upgraded my DishNetwork to the HD package. Now a couple questions: 1. I know some of the local (central Iowa) stations broadcast in HD, how do I get them? Do I have to buy an external antenna too? 2. On the ESPN and ESPN2 HD stations why are there black "bars" on both sides of the screen that cover about 1/3 of the picture with the words "ESPN HD"? Do I have my TV setup incorrectly or is that just how they broadcast to use less bandwidth?

Re: Newbie HD question

the bars on the side are only there when the content isnt hd. your getting the 4:3 mode in sd is all. some channels its just black like locals others have writing to give u something to look at like espn or big ten network.

Re: Newbie HD question

If you want over the air HD yes, you need an antenna.
The black bars may be there for several reasons. First if you have the box going to your tv with co axil cable (like regular cable) the signal will not be in HD. You should at the least use component cables (The RED,BLUE AND GREEN). If you want you can upgrade the cables, but Component is pretty good. Also sometimes HD channels still have the bars, but on ESPN it always says something on the bars so you know you are still getting the proper signal. Feel free to PM me with any additional questions.

Re: Newbie HD question

I'm using an HDMI cable from the cable box to the TV. But, just now realized that I'm watching the football game on ESPNHD and there's no black bars so it must have just been the broadcast (maybe a commercial?). So, as for the antenna, I looked up my address at AntennaWeb and it looks like I need at least a "blue" coded antenna (I live in Marshalltown). No idea what that means but can anyone recommend one? Sorry if this question has already been answered in one of the links already posted. I just skimmed through them and didn't see a specific brand/model.

Re: Newbie HD question

This is starting to look like a lot of work. So, you're saying the DB4 won't work for me, right? And I need a "Medium Directional" with amplifier? Where does the amplifier go? I mean, is it at the box or on the roof? I hope inside so I don't have to run an outlet to the roof:) How hard is it too hook up the antenna? Do I have to run another coax from the roof to the dish box or do you "splice" into the dish cable? Anyway, at over $100, is it really worth it? I guess I've already paid out the arse for the HD TV, HD dish package, etc... what's another $100, right?

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